Thermal barrier composition

ABSTRACT

The thermal barrier composition of the present invention provides a glassy matrix comprising an alkoxy-functionalized siloxane and a functionally-terminated silane or siloxane, polymethylsilsesquioxane dissolved in a crosslinking agent, and optionally a filler and/or hollow glass microspheres.

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to Provisional Application No. 60/461,800 filed Apr. 10, 2003, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a thermal barrier composition for use on a variety of substrates that are exposed to high temperatures. Exemplary substrates include pipelines, engine parts including jet engine components, water conduits including tubes in power plants, reactor vessels and exhaust manifolds.

[0003] Substrates, particularly metal substrates, can be subjected to high temperatures causing fatigue, cracking, distortion and the like of the substrate. For example, components of a jet engine or the surrounding parts of the jet can be exposed to temperatures in excess of 1800° F. In such a situation, it is readily apparent that fatiguing or cracking can lead to catastrophic failure. Similarly, piping used in various manufacturing facilities can be subjected to temperatures in excess of 400° F. caused by the liquid or gas passing through the pipe. In such an application, it is preferred that the coating not only provide a thermal barrier but also provide anti-corrosion properties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The thermal barrier composition of the present invention comprises a glassy matrix comprising an alkoxy-functionalized siloxane and a functionally-terminated silane or siloxane, polymethylsilsesquioxane dissolved in a crosslinking agent, and optionally a filler and/or hollow glass microspheres. The glass matrix provides good adhesion to the surface being coated, as well as, toughness, crack resistance, durability, abrasion resistance, heat resistance and stability in the particular environment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0005] As briefly discussed above, the present invention relates to a thermal barrier composition. The thermal barrier compositions comprises a glassy matrix comprising an alkoxy- functionalized siloxane and a functionally-terminated silane or siloxane, polymethylsilsesquioxane dissolved in a crosslinking agent, and optionally a filler and/or hollow glass microspheres. The thermal barrier composition of the present invention can be coated onto a wide variety of substrates including steel, stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, magnesium and zinc. The coating can withstand continuous use temperatures of 1800° F. or higher. Moreover, the composition is resistant to corrosive agents such as nitrogen and sulfur compounds.

[0006] Suitable alkoxy-functionalized siloxanes include polydiethoxysiloxane, tetraethoxysiloxane, tetramethoxysiloxane, and polydimethoxysiloxane. A preferred alkoxy-functionalized siloxane is polydiethoxysilane. Suitable functionally-terminated silanes or siloxanes include silanol-terminated, vinyl-terminated and amino-terminated silanes or siloxanes such as epoxy-functionalized polydimethylsiloxane, aminopropyltriethoxy silane and silanol-termainated siloxane.

[0007] The glassy matrix is crosslinked using a titanium or tin catalyst. Suitable catalysts include titanium alkoxides such as titanium methoxide, titanium ethoxide, titanium isopropoxide, titanium propoxide, titanium butoxide, titanium diisopropoxide (bis 2,4-pentanedionate), titanium diisopropoxide bis(ethylacetoacetao) titanium ethylhexoxide, and organic tin compounds such as dibutyl tin diacetate, dibutyltin laurate, dimethyl tin dineodecanoate, dioctyl dilauryl tin, and dibutyl butoxy chlorotin, as well as mixtures thereof. The glassy matrix can be formed by using a Sol-Gel process such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,313,193, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Other methods of forming the matrix will be within the skill of one in the art.

[0008] The polymethylsilsesquioxane (“POSS”) is dissolved in a crosslinking agent preferably titanium isopropoxide. By dissolving in titanium propoxide, up to about 40 percent of the POSS can be dissolved as compared to about 10 percent or less solubility in solvents. In operation, the glassy matrix and the polymethylsilsesquioxane are crosslinked or catalyzed separately so as to avoid premature gelation of the product prior to use.

[0009] The thermal barrier composition may also optionally include fillers such as, without limitation, glass fibers, fumed silica, mica, kaolin, bentonite, talc, zinc oxides, iron oxides and pigments or other fillers, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. The composition may also include hollow glass microspheres to provide additional heat resistance. Preferably, thin-walled glass microspheres are used. Typically the volume percent of glass microspheres is from about 30 percent to about 80 percent. If the higher amount is used, it is preferable to include milled glass fibers to improve durability. Anti-corrosion agents such as zinc phosphates and zinc salts can also be added.

[0010] In operation, the thermal barrier composition of the present invention can be applied to a substrate by roll-coating, brush, spray coating dipping and the like. It is preferred that the user mix the catalyst with the other components right before or substantially contemporaneously with application to form an interpenetrating polymer network of glass and silicone on the surface of the substrate. Inasmuch as crosslinking occurs via a moisture condensation reaction between ethoxy and hydroxyl groups, the condensation inherently present on the substrate and/or in the atmosphere can be used advantageously.

[0011] The following specific examples are provided to afford a better understanding of the present invention to those skilled in the art. It is to be understood that these examples are intended to be illustrative only and is not intended to limit the invention in any way.

EXAMPLES Example 1

[0012] 1. Formulation wt % Component 6.79 Poly(methylsilsesquioxane) 10.50 Titanium isopropoxide 4.19 Polydiethoxysiloxane 21.00 Silanol-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (4200 g/mol) 7.35 Titanium diisopropoxide (Bis-2,4-pentanedionate) 4.19 Polydiethoxysiloxane 31.49 Mica 325 mesh 13.48 Heucophos ZPO (zinc organophosphate) Corrosion Protection 1.50 Heucorin RZ (zinc salt) Corrosion Protection

[0013] 2. Manufacturing Steps

[0014] The first step is to dissolve the polymethysilsesquioxane (POSS) into the titanium isopropoxide (TIPO). This is accomplished by mixing the POSS into the titanium isopropoxide and heating at 100° C. for 24 hours.

[0015] The second step is to terminate the silanol groups on the ends of the polydimethylsiloxane. This is accomplished by mixing the silanol terminated polydimethylsiloxane with the titanium diisopropoxide (bis-2,4-pentanedionate) and allowing the mixture to crosslink for 1 hour. If this step is not performed, the silanol groups on the polymer will instantly react with the titanium isopropoxide and the system will gel in a matter of seconds.

[0016] The third step is to add the remaining components to the POSS/TIPO (A component) keeping the titanium diisopropoxide (bis-2,4-pentanedionate)/polydimethylsiloxane mixture out as the B component in an A/B system.

Example 2

[0017] Formulation wt % Component 24.07 Polysilsesquioxane dissolved in titanium isopropoxide and 20% polydiethoxysiloxane 5.42 Epoxy-functionalized polydimethylsiloxane 0.61 Aminopropyltriethoxy silane 16.05 Milled glass fiber 10.57 Hollow glass microspheres 1.20 Dibutyl tin dilaurate 40.12 Isopropyl alcohol 1.78 Titanium dioxide 0.18 Carbon Black

[0018] The formulation was manufactured using the same steps as Example 1 except that the POSS did not have to be pre-reacted with the TIPO. The formulation of Example 2 was used in various tests as described below and in Table 1. TABLE 1 Property Approach Test Method Standard Results Flexure Mechanically flex a coated titanium Apply coating to 6-inch titanium ASTM- 6 of 10 strips experienced cracking strip until the coating cracks or strips. Bend strips over rods of D6272 when bent over 1.50″ rods. Only 4 delaminates increasing diameter until cracks modified of 10 strips experienced cracking appear. when bent over 1.25″ rods. Conclusion: excellent flexure for intended application Lap Joint Test adhesion of coating to jet engine Apply coating to Ti strips ASTM Coating became stronger after Adhesion parts. (1″ × 6″ × ⅛″). D3164.03 exposure to high temperature. Bond them. Strong adhesion to Ti - no observable degradation from high temperature. All failures were cohesive. 1. R-Value 1. Determine R-value from independent 1. Measure thermal conductivity 1. ASTM Thermal conductivity = 2. Temperature lab for 3 thicknesses (⅛-inch, ¼-inch, at 700° F. of samples of varying E1530-99 0.15 W/m * K at 561° F. difference = 200° F. and ½-inch). Estimate temperature thickness with independent lab. 2. Turkey Temperature Delta across coating = drop using AFRL models. 2. One side of coating held at Fryer Rig. 337° F. with 3.0 mm thick coating. 2. Demonstrate coating will create 200° F. 1000° F. Temperature measured at temperature delta. TBC-Ti interface. Durability Perform in-house tests tailored to the a. Simulate 200-lb person standing ASTM High probability that coating will operational environment during Phase I, on a coasted plate and pivoting. D5420-98a have sufficient durability. to determine feasibility. b. Drop tool on coated plate form ASTM 4-feet. D968-93 c. Perform simple abrasion resistance test using falling sand method. Repairability Intentionally damage coated Ti coupons None Repair tests demonstrated that (hammer, scrape). Repair the coupon coating was restored to like-new and assess the quality of the repair by condition. knife adhesion tests and visual inspection. Vibration Use AFRL table vibration that will AFRL AFRL Results indicate high probability provide 160 dB noise and 900° F. that coating will withstand Quartz lamp. vibration environment.

[0019] Durability Testing

[0020] A series of durability tests were performed on the coating composition of Example 2. These tests were designed to simulate real-world events that will test the durability of the coating. The three specific tests performed on the coating composition of Example 2 included: two tool drop tests, a falling sand test, and a 200 lb, 90° pivot test.

[0021] The first tool drop test consisted of dropping a 106 gram wrench from a height of 48 inches onto a panel coated with the coating composition of Example 2. This test which was repeated multiple times resulted in a dent of about 5 mm×5 mm. The second tool drop test consisted of dropping a 783 gram hammer from the same 48 inch height. The tool drop resulted in a dent of about 15 mm×25 mm.

[0022] The indentions from the tool drop tests are consistent with the energy expected form objects of similar size and mass dropped form a height of 48 inches. No cracking or delamination occurred the coating and the divots can be easily repaired with the coating composition of Example 2.

[0023] The falling sand test consisted of dropping 1 gallon of sand from a height of 1.5 feet in a concentrated stream onto the surface of a steel panel coasted with the coating composition of Example 2 mounted 45° to the falling sand.

[0024] As a results of this test, the impact zone was abraded in a region about 10 mm×16 mm×0.5 mm. The coating composition of Example 2 demonstrated good abrasion resistance.

[0025] The third durability test consisted of a 200 lb person standing on a plate coated with the coating composition of Example 2 with all weight on one foot. Then the person pivoted 90°. No damage resulted to the coating composition of Example 2. The test demonstrates the coating composition of Example 2 can be walked on (e.g., a plane wing) with no damage.

[0026] Temperature Delta Data

[0027] A titanium plate with a 2.5 mm build of the coating composition of Example 2 was prepared. A 3 mm wide channel was cut into the coating from the center of the plate to the edge, and a thermocouple was positioned in the channel such that it would be in contact with the titanium plate. The coating composition of Example 2 was applied over the thermocouple to fill the channel and seal the thermocouple at the interface of the coating composition of Example 2 and the titanium plate, producing a sample with the thermocouple counted at the interface of the coating composition of Example 2 and the titanium. Total coating thickness was approximately 3.0 mm.

[0028] After the coating was cured, the plate was placed onto a steel block and was heated to a temperature of 1057° F. by a burner on the turkey fryer. The sample was placed with the coating composition of Example 2 directly in contact with the hot steel block, and allowed to equilibrate for 78 minutes to allow for steady state heat flow.

[0029] The temperature measurement at the coating composition of Example 2-titanium interface was found to be 720° F. with the hot steel measuring 1057° F.: a temperature delta of 337° F. across the coating composition of Example 2 for a coating that is 3.0 mm thick.

[0030] Measure Thermal Conductivity

[0031] Thermal conductivity was measured on a free standing coating composition of Example 2 film using the ASTM E1530 standard test method. Measurements were conducted at 105° F., 334° F., and 561° F. The results are listed in the Table 2. TABLE 2 Thermal Conductivity Test (ASTM D1530) Measurement Thermal Conductivity Temperature ° F. (W/(m * K)) 105.4 0.11 334.2 0.12 560.8 0.15

[0032] In the specification and examples, there have been disclosed typical preferred embodiments of the invention and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation of the scope of the invention set forth in the following claims. 

That which is claimed is:
 1. A thermal barrier coating composition (a) a glassy matrix comprising an alkoxy-functionalized siloxane and a functionally-terminated silane or siloxane; (b) polymethylsilsesquioxane dissolved in a crosslinking agent; (c) optionally, a filler, and (d) optionally hollow glass microspheres.
 2. The thermal barrier coating composition according to claim 1, wherein the alkoxy-functionalized siloxane is selected from the group consisting of polydiethoxysiloxane, polydimethoxysiloxane, tetramethoxysiloxane and tetraethoxysiloxane and the functionally-terminated siloxane is an epoxy-functionalized polydiethoxysiloxane.
 3. The thermal barrier coating composition according to claim 1, wherein the crosslinking agent is titanium isopropoxide.
 4. The thermal barrier coating compositiong according to claim 1, wherein the filler is selected from the group consisting of fumed silica, mica, kaolin, bentonite, talc, zinc oxides, iron oxides and pigments.
 5. The thermal barrier coating composition according to claim 1, wherein the glassy matrix is crosslinked using a titanium or tin catalyst.
 6. The thermal barrier coating composition according to claim 5, wherein the titanium or tin catalyst is selected from the group consisting of titanium methoxide, titanium ethoxide, titanium isopropoxide, titanium propoxide, titanium butoxide, titanium diisopropoxide (bis 2,4-pentanedionate), titanium diisopropoxide bis(ethylacetoacetao) titanium ethylhexoxide, dibutyl tin diacetate, dibutyltin laurate, dimethyl tin dineodecanoate, dioctyl dilauryl tin, and dibutyl butoxy chlorotin, and mixtures thereof.
 7. The thermal barrier coating composition according to claim 1, further comprising an anti-corrosion agent.
 8. A substrate coated with a thermal barrier composition comprising a glassy matrix comprising an alkoxy-functionalized siloxane and a functionally-terminated silane or siloxane, polymethylsilsesquioxane dissolved in a crosslinking agent, optionally, a filler, and optionally hollow glass microspheres.
 9. The substrate according to claim 8, wherein the substrate is selected from the group consisting of steel, stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, magnesium and zinc.
 10. The substrate according to claim 8, wherein the alkoxy-functionalized siloxane is selected from the group consisting of polydiethoxysiloxane, polydimethoxysiloxane, tetramethoxysilane and tetraethoxysilane and the functionally-terminated siloxane is an epoxy-functionalized polydiethoxysiloxane.
 11. The substrate according to claim 8, wherein the crosslinking agent is titanium isopropoxide.
 12. The substrate according to claim 8, wherein the filler is selected from the group consisting of fumed silica, mica, kaolin, bentonite, talc, zinc oxides, iron oxides, and pigments.
 13. The substrate according to claim 8, wherein the glassy matrix is crosslinked using a titanium or tin catalyst.
 14. The substrate according to claim 13, wherein the titanium or tin catalyst is selected from the group consisting of titanium methoxide, titanium ethoxide, titanium isopropoxide, titanium propoxide, titanium butoxide, titanium diisopropoxide (bis 2,4-pentanedionate), titanium diisopropoxide bis(ethylacetoacetao) titanium ethylhexoxide, dibutyl tin diacetate, dibutyltin laurate, dimethyl tin dineodecanoate, dioctyl dilauryl tin, and dibutyl butoxy chlorotin, and mixtures thereof.
 15. The substrate according to claim 8, further comprising an anti-corrosion agent.
 16. A method of forming a thermal barrier composition comprising the steps of (a) dissolving polymethylsilsesquioxane in a crosslinking agent; (b) mixing a glass matrix comprising an alkoxy-functionalized siloxane and a functionally-terminated silane with a tin or titanium catalyst to terminate the silanol groups on the end of the siloxane; and (c) mixing (a) and (b) together.
 17. The method according to claim 16, including adding filler or glass microspheres to the dissolved polymethylsilsesquioxane of step (a) or the mixture of step (c).
 18. The method according to claim 16, wherein the alkoxy-functionalized siloxane is selected from the group consisting of polydiethoxysiloxane, polydimethoxysiloxane, tetramethoxysilane and tetraethoxysilane and the functionally-terminated siloxane is an epoxy-functionalized polydiethoxysiloxane.
 19. The method according to claim 16, wherein the crosslinking agent is titanium isopropoxide.
 20. The method according to claim 16, wherein the filler selected from the group consisting of fumed silica, mica, kaolin, bentonite, talc, zinc oxides, zinc phosphates, iron oxides and pigments.
 21. The method according to claim 16, wherein the titanium or tin catalyst is selected from the group consisting of titanium methoxide, titanium ethoxide, titanium isopropoxide, titanium propoxide, titanium butoxide, titanium diisopropoxide (bis 2,4-pentanedionate), titanium diisopropoxide bis(ethylacetoacetao) titanium ethylhexoxide, dibutyl tin diacetate, dibutyltin laurate, dimethyl tin dineodecanoate, dioctyl dilauryl tin, and dibutyl butoxy chlorotin, and mixtures thereof.
 22. The method according to claim 16, further comprising an anti-corrosion agent. 